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FAQ’s About RIA FCU Private Student Loan

Federal loans may not be enough to cover the cost of your college education. Private student loans available through R.I.A. Federal Credit Union can be the answer to your funding needs.

What is a R.I.A. Federal Credit Union Private Student Loan?

The R.I.A. Federal Credit Union Private Student Loan can be used to pay for qualified educational expenses including tuition, room and board, books, and other school related expenses. Private student loans serve as a way for students to fill the funding gap between the cost of attending school and the amount of federal loans, grants, and available scholarships.

What is the difference between a private student loan and a federal student loan?

Federal student loans follow guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Education and typically offer fixed and lower interest rates compared to private student loans. However, federal loans, unlike most private loans, have borrowing limits, which may not allow a student to borrow enough to cover the entire cost of education. Private loans help students fill the funding gap between the cost of attending school and the amount of federal loans, grants, and available scholarships. Both private and federal student loans typically allow students to defer payments while in school and some offer economic forbearance options once a student completes school. Unlike federal loan programs, private lenders assess the credit history of the borrower and cosigner before making a loan.

How do I know if I’m eligible for financial aid?

Eligibility for federal, state and university funded financial aid is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All students are strongly encouraged to apply for federal aid by completing the FAFSA, which can be obtained online at FAFSA Website.

How much financial aid am I eligible to receive?

The financial information you provide in the Free Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA) is used by the government to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is the amount you and your family are expected to pay towards your education. The EFC is then subtracted from the cost of attendance for your respective school to determine the amount of financial aid you are eligible to receive.

What is an Expected Family Contribution (EFC)?

The EFC is a calculated assessment of how much your family is expected to contribute to your college costs. The EFC takes into consideration your family’s financial strength – income and assets. Other factors considered include the number of family members and number of family members in college.

Attention to detail and a wonderfully friendly staff are just a few of the attributes I would use to describe the R.I.A. Federal Credit Union in Tomah.

One of the most unique qualities about the employees is that they are always looking out for my best interest. Unlike other lending institutions I have worked with, they will present you with multiple options when it comes to lending, explaining each along the way, so that I am able to make an educated decision rather than signing paperwork and 20 minutes later wondering what it is I signed. Peace of mind is invaluable when it comes to your finances, and I have found that at R.I.A. Federal Credit Union.

Michael, Tomah

I am now on my fifth auto loan through R.I.A. Federal Credit Union. Their staff are very knowledgeable, customer-friendly and always remember my name, and their interest rates are superb. I would recommend R.I.A. to everyone for any of their financial needs.

Chris, Tomah

I love the R.I.A. Federal Credit Union branch in Savanna because of the well trained and dedicated supervisor. The service representatives are very knowledgeable and helpful. The central location is desirable offering a wide range of quality financial services.

Irv, Savanna

So glad I made the switch to R.I.A. Federal Credit Union awhile ago. They take the time to remember their members names and even voice when they call in all the time. Super friendly staff and excellent customer service always! I absolutely love doing business with them.

Briana, Coal Valley

We opened our accounts in October of 2010. We immediately felt welcome into the R.I.A. Federal Credit Union family. The entire staff has been friendly, helpful with any and all problems or questions. Very professional to deal with.

Jerry & Rosann, Silvis

Our son being the Lil’ Saver at the Mallard’s game was such a great experience. Thank you so much! It really is an amazing opportunity that you do for the kids.